This article reports the findings of a grounded theory study of the processes involved in adherence and treatment seeking delay for febrile neutropenia in chemotherapy patients. Interviews were conducted with 12 patients. Six theoretical constructs were generated, namely ‘Recall of Treatment Advice’, ‘Impact of Emotions’, ‘Influence of Social Networks’, ‘Symptom Monitoring Behaviour’, ‘Symptom Interpretation’, and ‘Preparation and Journey Time’. A model was developed to reflect the complex interplay between these theoretical constructs. Data extracts are presented to illustrate the grounding of the model in patients’ accounts, and the model is discussed with reference to previous theory and research.